What We Do Locally!

 

World War I was the catalyst for the formation of many American Red Cross Chapters. The Centralia Illinois Chapter was founded on September 10, 1917. At that time, one of the primary services of the Chapter was to make up bandages which were then sent to the Army for use in field hospitals. Over the years, the Chapter assumed additional responsibilities which included the collection of blood products and relief response to disasters. For 88 years, the Chapter’s jurisdiction was limited to the city of Centralia with secondary responsibility for a few surrounding counties such as Marion, Clay and Clinton. In 2005, the Chapter’s official jurisdiction was expanded to include Centralia and all of Clinton County. A Service Center was then opened in Carlyle, Illinois to serve the residents of Clinton County. Later in 2005, the Chapter changed its official name to the South Central Illinois Chapter of the American Red Cross, reflecting the true geography for which it was responsible. Mid-way through 2005 the Chapter was asked to assume additional responsibility for five more counties, formerly served by the Effingham, Illinois Chapter. Today, the Chapter serves seven counties; Clinton, Marion, Effingham, Fayette, Clay, Jasper and Cumberland. Offices are located in Centralia, Carlyle and Effingham.
 

The Centralia Office Also:

•supports the Missouri-Illinois Blood Services Region with assistance with local blood drives

•offers classes in first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), water safety, swimming, and   lifeguard training

•offers HIV/Aids educational materials

•provides prompt relief in times of national disaster through a national disaster fund

•facilitates emergency communication between members of the US Armed Forces and   supports casework services

•prepares for prompt action in times of local disaster by training volunteers, preparing and  facilitating a local disaster plan, and maintaining a local disaster fund